West Nile virus cases are ticking up in Utah, with multiple counties reporting increasing numbers of mosquito-borne illnesses. In response, workers at the Salt Lake Mosquito Abatement District have turned to innovative technology to combat the problem. The district is utilizing drones equipped with advanced applications to kill mosquitoes, a species that dates back hundreds of millions of years.
The West Nile virus was first detected in the US in 1999 and has since been reported in Utah, where it is commonly found in Africa, West Asia, and the Middle East. The virus can cause disease in humans, birds, horses, and other mammals, leading to symptoms such as headaches, body aches, joint pain, and stomach disorders.
The fight against West Nile virus is a constant battle, with mosquitoes highly adaptive and hungry. In northern Utah, the virus has been detected in pools of water, but no human cases have been reported yet. To combat this problem, residents are advised to use insect repellent, wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, and treat their clothing and gear with repellent when outdoors.
The Salt Lake Mosquito Abatement District is taking a proactive approach to mitigate the spread of West Nile virus by employing advanced technology. While no specific details on the effectiveness of this approach are available, it highlights the district’s commitment to protecting residents from mosquito-borne illnesses.
Source: https://www.deseret.com/utah/2025/08/08/mosquito-control-utah-west-nile-virus